Top 10 Most Beautiful Dog Breeds

A list of the most beautiful dog breeds in the world, including images of each. | Source

The Most Beautiful Dogs in the World

Amazingly, all of the beautiful, handsome, cute, and pretty dogs in the world come from one source—the majestic wolf.

But since the ancestors of today's dogs were tamed over 14,000 years ago, an astonishing array of breeds have come about. These dogs all have the 321 bones and 42 permanent teeth of a wolf but vary greatly in appearance. Here we will take a look of some of the best-looking breeds.

If you're considering getting a dog, remember that no matter how big, little, smooth-haired, shaggy, fast, slow, playful, or dignified your choice, all dogs can make wonderful companions. Enjoy their companionship and remember they need plenty of love, care, and attention to be happy.

Thank you for your feedback in the polls. I have reordered this list according to your feedback. If you don't see a breed that you think I should have included, please let me know in the comments!

1: Siberian Husky—Sled Dog

A Siberian husky in profile. | Source

Siberians are full of energy. | Source

Huskies do well in cold climates. | Source

Husky owners choose this special breed for their temperaments—a unique mixture of laid-back and sportive. These dogs are playful, happy-go-lucky, loving, and fond of their families. They have a keen, docile, relaxed, and casual way about them. They tend to howl rather than bark. Huskies will be friends with almost anyone, and, therefore, are not good watch dogs. They are happiest when around family members and are part of the group. Their gentle demeanors and group mentality make them very popular as a family dog.

Huskies are great jogging companions. They do much better in cooler climates due to their under and outer coats. These dogs were developed to run and need this daily exercise—elsewise, they will become bored. Their love of running also means you need to be careful before taking the leash off—they can run for miles before realizing they are lost. If a husky does not receive enough mental and physical stimulation, it can become very destructive. They eat very little compared to other dogs and can run great distances with very little water and food. This toughness made them ideal sled dogs.

The husky is good with other dogs if raised with them from puppyhood. They tend to be aggressive towards cats.

Do you like Siberian Huskies?

2: Golden Retriever—Miss Congeniality

Golden retrievers are loving and trusting. | Source

A golden retriever puppy. | Source

A famously good-natured golden retriever playing with the pups. | Source

Goldens get along with all people, be they children, strangers, or seniors. They're also fantastic with other dogs, cats, and pets. They'll happily dismiss all the dumb mistakes you're bound to make. Whether you come home two hours late, forget their dinner, or accidentally step on their tails, they'll forget it ever happened as soon as you show them some love. Newspaper accounts document the fact that even traumatic events like abuse, abandonment, and accidents don't affect a golden for any great length of time. A golden's ability to bounce back and keep on loving and trusting people is legendary.

Do you like Golden Retrievers?

3: German Shepherd—K9 Police Dog

German shepherds are confident and self-assured. | Source

German shepherds hanging out at the beach. | Source

A German shepherd taking a rest. | Source

German shepherds are the world's leading police, guard, and military dog. However, contrary to their appearance, they are not hostile. Instead, they are confident, self assured, and ever-so-slightly aloof. These fearless dogs are very affectionate toward those they consider family members but may not seem personable to strangers because they are unlikely to make the first move. However, when approached by a stranger they find acceptable, they will respond with affection. The temperament of a German shepherd is one of quiet confidence and maturity. They are very loyal, forming strong bonds with family members. They have been known to defend owners against large animals such as bears. However, be sure to socialize the German so that it does not become overprotective of family members.

German shepherds were bred for their intelligence. They are very easy to train, and it is said that they pick up simple tasks after only five repetitions. These qualities, along with their strength and ability, make them perfectly suited for police duties, guarding, and search-and-rescue operations. They also fit very well into roles of companions, guide dogs, herding dogs, and guardians.

Do you like German Shepherds?

4: Labrador Retriever—Original Water Dog

Labs are the original water dogs. | Source

Labs are easy-going and good with people. | Source

Labs are a great choice for people who love the outdoors. | Source

Chewing and mouthing are common problems among labradors. You will need to keep lots of chew toys and bones on hand in order to save your furniture and shoes. A lab's favorite greeting is to trot up with a trophy in its mouth, so keep an eye on anything within its reach that is not tacked down. Labs love holding things in their mouths. Virtually anything will do, even hands or arms. But you needn't worry about getting bitten—if they take your hand, they will do so very gently. A lab can carry an egg in its mouth without breaking it—they have a very soft "feel" to their mouths. They do like chewing on things, though they can be trained not to. If you don't want to come home and find couches destroyed, you need to be prepared to exercise your lab before you leave the house and provide him with lots of bones.

Labradors do not normally make good watchdogs. Although they will bark at strange noises, they are far too easy-going and trusting with strangers—they can make friends within seconds. Amicable and sociable, the Labrador Retriever is a playful companion and a calm housedog.

The labrador retriever is the original water dog, with a weather-resistant and waterproof coat and an "otter" tail it uses to steer like a boat's rudder when swimming. Its heavyset body and strong legs enable the dog to swim and run powerfully. Frequent exercise is needed to keep them healthy and occupied.

Do you like Labrador Retrievers?

5: Saint Bernard—Gentle Giant and Great Predictor of Avalanches

Saint Bernards are giant, but calm. | Source

These large dogs do well in cold weather. | Source

Though slow-moving, these dogs are playful. | Source

The Saint Bernard, known as the "gentle giant," is enormous, powerful, and well-muscled—all necessary characteristics for walking through deep snow. It is very intelligent and seems to be able to predict when an avalanche will occur.

This slow-moving, gentle dog makes a great family pet. Although not particularly playful, it is good with children. Because of the dog's large size, care should be taken to prevent accidents, especially around small children. They can be stubborn, but Saint Bernards are loyal to their families and willing to please.

Do you like Saint Bernards?

6: Great Dane—The Sensitive

Scooby Doo is a great Dane, and here is one with similar coloring. The dogs grow to an impressive size—sometimes over 150 pounds. | Source

A spotted great Dane basking in the sand. | Source

Always remember that your great Dane's temperament is a reflection of your own. If you greet another person warmly, your Dane is likely to do the same; if you are apprehensive or nervous, this will show in the reaction of your dog.

The great Dane is a very sensitive animal. Some people might find it comical to know that the great Dane, in spite of its size, can very easily have its feelings hurt. This speaks volumes about the great Dane's temperament. They are so sensitive that yelling or using the wrong tone of voice can leave them feeling upset, hurt, or uneasy. More than anything, your Dane just wants to please and protect you.

Owners should always remember that while great Danes are very loving and gentle, they are extremely large, sometimes weighing in at over 150 pounds. This can be very intimidating for strangers, especially those with small children, no matter how friendly the dog. Fortunately, great Danes are just as gentle and friendly with children as they are with adults.

7. Doberman—Body Guard

Dobermans like to be physically close to family members. Devoted and watchful, they are a very people oriented breed.

The doberman needs an owner who is willing and able to display a natural authority over the dog. Humans need to discipline the dog without being afraid of it. All family members must be firm, confident and consistent, setting rules and sticking to them. Learn to handle the dog properly, as dobermans can be pushy if allowed to have their way. It must be thoroughly trained to be a good pet.

The doberman is naturally protective and does not need additional protection training to be a fine guard dog. It should be thoroughly socialized with both children and adults when young. To raise a well-adjusted and happy doberman, you will need to provide plenty of mental stimulation and a lot of daily exercise.

Do you like Dobermans?

8: Bulldog—Stubborn but Sweet Companion

A bulldog enjoying the great outdoors. | Source

Bulldogs are a good low-energy breed. | Source

A bulldog in a shaving parlor. | Source

This dog always wants to be close to the owner, and very often it is impossible to stop it from sleeping on the bed—next to you. Also, anyone who has ever owned a bulldog cannot deny its stubbornness. They are very assertive and like everything around them to be calm and quiet. They themselves are almost silent, barking only when necessary. It's very possible that you will go days without hearing the voice of your pet;

While bulldogs generally get along with anyone and everybody, they do tend to choose one person to stick to. The dog will develop a strong bond with its main caregiver. Bulldogs thrive on attention and love. They do not do well when left alone for long periods. The bulldog isn't a dog that you can ignore for stretches of time. It is a companion dog, and it need lots of attention and, above all, love from its owner.

While the bulldog is a very sweet adorable clown, the breed does tend to have a mind of its own and can be very willful. You do have to have a firm voice when it comes to training—persistence and patience are key. Never ever be tempted to hit or jerk your bulldog around if it doesn't do as you want; they will not respond to this and will more often than not rebel against it.

Do you like Bulldogs?

9: Kuvasz—The Prolific Shedder

The kuvasz is a very heavy shedder. You'll find hair all over your home, stuck to everything—you'll probably even find it in the butter!

If a kuvasz is raised with children, it will be very protective of them. The dog may even extend that protection to visiting children. However, when the kids have friends over, do not leave your kuvasz unsupervised. It's likely to intervene in a misguided attempt to protect the children.

If a kuvasz is not raised with children, it will need time to get used to their quick movements and shrill voices—these dogs are not automatically good with kids. Teach children never to tease or mistreat the dog.

Do you like Kuvaszs?

10: Bullmastiff—Gentle Guardian

A happy bullmastiff. | Source

Bullmastiffs are large dogs. | Source

A bullmastiff puppy. | Source

This relatively little-known breed of dog may be the best choice for the family that wants good dependable protection for their family members and home. Bullmastiffs often do not gain their full confidence until they are about two years old, so the owner should not expect them to really come into their own until reaching that age. After they mature, they are one of the best—if not the best—watchdogs available.

Many people who see a bullmastiff playing with children cannot believe they can be anything but friendly. However if the need arises, the bullmastiff's personality can quickly do a 180, changing from a friendly clown into the most determined attack dog imaginable. Bullmastiffs are tough even in the face of pain and will fight through any injury to protect their masters.

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Winnie

6 weeks ago

I think that the border collie and greyhound breeds should definitely be on the top most beautiful breeds. They are both quietly assertive and very loyal. Collies are incredibly quick learners too!

Ana Tsareva

2 months ago

Where is the MALTESE???

normanmajor@aol.com

2 months ago

as an owner of a Siberian Husky I will tell people straight out that the Siberian Husky is very energetic and is very playful with children but you must be an alpha male to them so they understand that you are the boss and not them if you let them be the boss they will walk all over you they do not make good watchdogs

Dela

2 months ago

You left out the most beautiful dog breed - the Brittany. They are beautiful, unique, smart, loving, energetic, and tons of fun! We have two, a brother and sister. Best dogs ever!

nick73

4 months ago

English bull terrier?

collie dogs

4 months ago

I love all dogs.

Beauty is about opinion so this list was made by someone who likes huskies, retrievers, bulldogs and all of the other dogs on the list so the writer loves these dogs. Not everyone likes the same dogs so their lists would be different. I have a border collie and believe they are the best.

Luke

5 months ago

Wheaten terriers are the most beautiful dogs.

Bev Brooks

6 months ago

I like the disposition of Golden Retrievers, the look & nature of Labs, & I like the smartness of Australian Shepherds. If able I'd probably be a 3 dog family.

nhgvfghbj

6 months ago

this survey thing is so cool and nice top 10 pics.your helping me find a dog breed because me and my family are getting a new puppy thank you so much for helping.

Melany

6 months ago

I think that was wonderful I’m getting a dog and now I can’t decide which one because they are all amazing!!!!!

Mabel

7 months ago

Where is Yorkshire terriers breed dogs? They are one of my favorite!

?

8 months ago

What about Chihuahuas? Can anyone tell me if I should buy one?

Chris

11 months ago

Where is the Leonberger?

angry citizen

11 months ago

shiba inu/akita or atleast the Australian shepherd. This is not being based on opinion, but facts. Aussies have the most beautiful coat out there, and shiba inus and akitas have a beautiful shiny coat and they're known for being the most loyal dogs.

Nath potter

13 months ago

Where is Shiba Inu?

Lol

14 months ago

I find border collies quite beautiful and also they are worlds most intelligent dog.My dog ain't a border collie but I find that they are beautiful, hardworking dogs compared to pugs and pit bulls.

tbh

15 months ago

yall are blind,, irish wolfhounds are the mos beutifull dogs

vera

15 months ago

The Samoyed is the most beautiful dog in the world. This list does not make any sense.

Freya

15 months ago

Where is Irish wolfhound on this list?? They're the most incredible and mystical dogs, FAR more beautiful than all these dogs!!!

BruhLookAtThisDood

15 months ago

I just can't understand what everyone sees on that Siberian Husky.. it's just aggressive, lazy and totally dumb dogs what can't even maintain their own behavior. Like Akita/Shiba Inu. I think everyone likes it just because they're popular.. I prefer those strong and big dogs like Bullmastiff, not these shits. Of these dogs is at least some benefit, while these beggars are rolling all day under the door or on the couch. Seriously guys, open eyes and look on dog's personality, not beauty or popularity. I already have serious nerves on these breeds, simply horror.. -_-

Nelson

16 months ago

I feel like the Akita should have been on this list. It's one of the most beautiful dogs there is. Also, the Shiba Inu, Pomeranian, the American Eskimo Dog, Alaskan Malamute, and the Tibetan Mastiff should be on this list.

Cheryl

16 months ago

The rough collie...."Lassie"....is not shown on your site? Are you kidding me? That is one of the most beautiful breeds of dogs there ever was or is!!!

John Nicholls

16 months ago

Obviously the people who compiled the list had a penchant for large dogs.

I have had four wonderful dogs. Two Labs and a Collie Retriever cross had lovely natures and were fine looking. But for sheer sweetness and beautiful appearance nothing can beat our nine month old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppy!

He's called Cromwell (what else??)!!

Person

17 months ago

I just love dogs they are so cute!!!!

But I do have to say that iI am surprised at some of the ones that were on here and some of the new that weren't . I wasn't surprised that those huskies dogs made it into this article. But like I said.......

I LOVE DOGS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Kayla

18 months ago

Black labs are my absolute favorite dog. They are gorgeous to me, the way their black coats shine in the sunlight. I used to have one named Roma. She was my best friend, growing up on a farm. Miss that dog. After I moved out with my mom, since it was my grandparents' farm, I never saw Roma again. I moved out at age 6, and never saw her again. It's been 7 years since I saw her D:

Dannylee

18 months ago

For shear cuteness Shar pei puppies has to be in the top 5,easily!,how can you not fall in love with that little bouncing bag of skin?..lol.Some of these dogs wouldn't be in my list,you've missed a hell of a lot of other dogs out that should've been listed!.

sameer shrestha

19 months ago

Tibetan Mastiff dog breed is my favorite dog they are very loyal and very playful.

Why not add belgian malinois on the list? They are loyal, protective and beautiful. They are almost exactly like german shepherds, but they are a bit smaller and they tend to be more healthier, agile and they live longer too!

Rottweilerr

20 months ago

Rottweilers should totally be on the list.

Rene

20 months ago

`Rottweilers are the best breed

Chihuahua

20 months ago

WHERE ARE THE CHIHUAHUAS????!!!! I WANT THE CHIHUAHUAS!!

Panda

21 months ago

Are you serious? For sheer beauty, nothing beats a SAMOYED ...Which is one of the 14 oldest DOG breeds and has NO WOLF DNA in it!! The person who wrote this article doesn't know what he's talking about!!!

No name

23 months ago

Where are the border collies and the German shorthair pointer (GSP)

Emily

23 months ago

You missed a lot of nice dogs like the shiva in, american eskimo dog and samoyed

Valentina

23 months ago

Missing the Shetland sheepdog and collies!

Grod

23 months ago

interesting the Samoyed didn't make it. If you are talking about the most BEAUTIFUL dogs then you have missed out on a lot nicer ones!

Chris

2 years ago

Rottweilers should be on this list they are so adorable as puppies and super handsome as adults!

Isabella

2 years ago

Obviously all of these people who say some of these dogs should be off of the list and some should be added, the creator of this site had their own opinion just like the rest of us, none of us should be un greatful and questioning or disliking their choices because obviously some of us are to lazy to make a site with our own opinion that will most likely have dislikes and comments very much like these... I am greatful for the person who made this list, thank you and sorry for the argument, I had to get this off of my chest and I hope some of us take in the advice...

tasos

2 years ago

for real , where is the samoyed in the list? its the most beautiful dog breed hands down

Mona my lab

2 years ago

I think Labradors are the best.I have a beautiful black labrador named Mona, she is 4 years old. And i even have a puppy chihuahua named coco, he's 5 months,,,,, BEST DOGS EVER

#MONACOCO

Michele

2 years ago

Okay??? Um, who made this list? Where is the Border Collie and Shetland Sheepdog? Good Lord.

miss cellany

2 years ago

Ugh bulldog?? Bull mastiff?? The brachycephalic breeds might have some good traits (maybe) but beauty is certainly not one of them.

Where is the border collie? That has to be one of the most beautiful breeds, especially their intelligent gentle expression and great doggy smile.

I think kelpies are very handsome dogs too, and shelties are pretty little things - actually almost all of the herding breeds are gorgeous... maybe because they have nice natural body and head shapes which allows them to work all day (corgis are an obvious exception).

A Dog is only person that loves u more than anyone, more than Your Mother too...!!!

''It's really true''

Zachary

2 years ago

As an owner of a GSD (German Shepherd), I can appreciate the start of this list. A Siberian Husky, the retrievers, the GSD and the Doberman are all magnificent looking animals... However, when talking beauty specifically, this list overlooked a few and the list maker should be ashamed and revise this list. Beauty and Bulldog don't belong in the same sentence unless you're mentioning that Bulldogs are not beautiful. Might as well throw the Bloodhound in here as well... Obviously a biased selection... Same goes for the Mastiff. How about a Brittany? A Weimaraner? Border Collie? Burmese Mountain Dogs? A bulldog... Really?

Amber

2 years ago

shelties should be there

Hope

2 years ago

Why aren't Australian Shepherds on here? They come in many coats and eye colors. They should be at least in the top five!

Beaglebuddy

2 years ago

Why aren't beagles on here?

Nick Jackson

2 years ago

I'm currently the owner of a golden retriever and yes ( Simba ) is most certainly gorgeous so I agree with the article on that note however although I love Bulldogs I don't think they are the prettiest of dogs but just cute in there dumb British kinda dog look. Might be wrong but I just think there is certainly a different dog breed that is more glamerous than the bulldog

Acf

2 years ago

Shelties Should be there

darkat106

2 years ago

Why didn't you add the afghan hound, they are known to be one of the most elegant breed of dogssss

Sizuka

2 years ago

Golden Retriever ! You are very nice dog. I and my family like you very much.

Anna

2 years ago

Personall, I think you should at the setters. I have a Gordon Setter, but they are all pretty, especially the Irish Setter

Anubrata (Diya)

2 years ago

Oh Golden Retriever ! You are my favourite because you are so cute and Golden. Anyone give me one please... I love you very much.

Rai

2 years ago

I love Golden Retriever, Huskies and German Shepherd. They are my favourite dogs.

Cocker

2 years ago

English cocker spaniels and Springer spaniels need some love too..they have the kindest most inquisitive eyes

GrayWolf_207

2 years ago

Love all dogs, and these ones are REALLY beautiful but always a German Shepherd for me! Though Sibes are beautiful too.

nandana

2 years ago

German shepherds are the best and a really nice list. I have one and I think they are really good with kids. The K9 police dog is my favourite.

malik usman

2 years ago

i like Siberian Husky—Sled Dog.

ishika sen

2 years ago

golden retriver is the bbbbbbbeeeeeesssssssttttttt!

tat1685

2 years ago

Observe...the Airedale.

Jared

2 years ago

Does anyone else have a dogs that is a shih zue

horse and border collies rule

2 years ago

how can a border collie or blue merle not be on here??

Bb

2 years ago

That's true they are missing the bull terriers and the collie

Ambriel

2 years ago

You're missing Bull Terriers and Collies as well. Nice article just the same.

Weird not finding Samoyed on a list about the most beautiful dog breeds!

Miss Cellany

2 years ago

How can border collie not be on this list? They're gorgeous and so stylish in their tuxedo markings! Also the most intelligent and trainable breed and so loyal and gentle... They're so agile and slinky too - like cats... they're even good at climbing.

I can't believe bulldog is on this list...

Sibes really are the most beautiful though but I'd never own one because they can't go off lead and they're hard to train.

MoonChild753

3 years ago

Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder.

Alexis

3 years ago

i'm not seeing the clavier king Charles spainel

David

3 years ago

Husky they are the most beautiful dogs

Annie

3 years ago

I think akita should be there to

Mike D

3 years ago

Seriously not 1 single pit bull type?? Immediate ejection of legitamacy of this article in my opinion. There were good candidates but i feel some should definitely be replaced.

majora

3 years ago

lol, who puts a bulldog on a beautiful dogs list?

doglover

3 years ago

I think White shepherd is the best but great list! I love dogs :D

daniel octave

3 years ago

i need a garman shepard please can you give me one? They are so so loving

Foivos

3 years ago

Where is the akiita inu - shiba inu - ....?

Hannah

3 years ago

The dachshund and the golden retriever is my favorite

Lala Zavala

3 years ago

I like the voting idea.

Lena

3 years ago

Kinda strange choice for beautiful dogs top.

hello

3 years ago

i love all the dogs that you chose! I'm currently living with a portie that i love

Andrew Palinca

3 years ago

What about the Weimaraner!

oge

4 years ago

Awesome breed

Alanna

4 years ago

These are the most common breeds. The most loved. None of the rated most beautiful dogs were on yhis list. For instance, the Afgan Hound is considered one of the most beautiful. I just found that few dogs on here were actually helpful to look for.

Antoi

4 years ago

I love all dogs but I have my favourite, labrador retriever...

Umair Hassan

4 years ago

I have no words to express my feelings!!!!!!!!!!!!awesome!!!!!

Emmy

4 years ago

I like schnauzers I had 2 named sugar and sassy but they both died

Know I have a lab mix blue heeler

karla

4 years ago

I was kinda surprised that the best breed of dog (the AMERICAN PITBULL) wasn't in the list

Desert92270

4 years ago

There is no dog that compares with the love and affection that comes from a GOLDENDOODLE and they should be recognized as a breed.

navoda

4 years ago

I like and love Labrador retrievers. I have a lab and by experience i know how sweet they are.

hugo-silva-925

4 years ago

Pugs are cute also :)

Takkhis

4 years ago

I have a German Shepherd and I am proud to be his owner!

renju-binoy

4 years ago

Thanks for sharing various pictures of dogs

renju-binoy

4 years ago

Great lens.

renju-binoy

4 years ago

I like my Siberian husky very much,it is because of its wonderful characters

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